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An airplane is loaded below its maximum gross weight but its CG is 2 inches aft of the aft limit. Is the loading legal?

Choices

Yes, because it is under maximum gross weight
Being under weight does not excuse an out-of-limits CG.
✓ No, because both weight and CG must be within limitscorrect
A legal loading requires the CG to be within limits AND the weight to be at or below maximum.
Yes, because CG limits are only advisory
CG limits are mandatory, not advisory.
Only if a passenger is added in back
Adding weight aft would move the CG further aft, worsening the problem.

Why

A loading is legal only when the gross weight is within limits and the CG falls between the forward and aft limits. An out-of-limits CG is illegal even under maximum weight.

FAA source: FAA-H-8083-1 Ch. 4browse the reference library →

This is taught in Weight and Balance Fundamentals — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.